Perinatal Suicide in Ireland
This briefing paper offers a concise, exploratory examination of perinatal mental health and maternal suicide.
Drawing on national and international evidence, it highlights mental health risks that can arise during pregnancy and in the period following birth.
The briefing paper aims to provide a starting point for further discussion, research, and policy development on perinatal mental health in Ireland.
What is the perinatal period?
This is the stage during and after a pregnancy which can be linked to distinct mental health risks. It is also known as the peripartum period.
Key facts
- According to the World Health Organisation, 10% of pregnant people and 13% of people who have just given birth, experience a mental health condition
- Suicide is the leading cause of maternal death in Ireland
- Between 2019 and 2021, 8 of 24 maternal deaths in Ireland were due to suicide
- The risk of suicide after pregnancy can increase for people facing poverty, domestic abuse and other social risk factors
Listen to our MHR MiniCast
In this special Mental Health Reform Podcast, MiniCast episode, we explore the findings and lived experience that inform our research on Perinatal Suicide in Ireland.